Dear MDC Family,
Welcome to Miami Dade College’s 2020 summer term.
I want to thank everyone for staying focused on their education and work during this unprecedented global situation. A special note of gratitude goes out to the select group of students, faculty, and employees who will return to our campuses starting today. It is the first time we go through something like this as a College family, so I appreciate everyone’s patience and trust in our process of slowly returning toward normal operations. There will no doubt be a few bumps in our road to recovery. As individuals, we are all doing our best to cope and adapt. We are in the same situation as an institution of higher learning. Although MDC strives to provide our students and employees with the smoothest path to that destination, we are also at this crossroad for the first time.
It is amazing to think that we have been functioning as a college under this climate of uncertainty for almost three months now. Fatigue is a reality at this point. Yet, as most of us continue to learn or work remotely this term, it is important that we deflect its effects by staying informed, connected, and motivated. There will be better times ahead. And while I certainly cannot predict when this will be over, I feel that earning a college degree or certificate now will be the ultimate way to prepare for our country’s return to normality in the future. As Roman philosopher Seneca once said, “Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity.” Businesses will reopen and flourish. At that time, we must all do our part to make sure we are ready to take advantage of prospects as they come our way.
And speaking of opportunities, we are working with many community partners to develop and implement plans to support learners and help restore our local economy while building a stronger Miami. Students, please remain on the lookout for new programs and support initiatives from MDC. We are committed to your success and understand that in the wake of COVID-19, it is critical that we get our community back on track with the education and support it needs to succeed. Please view the MDC Cares financial and educational support website. It shares just some of the ways we are hoping to make this journey a little easier for everyone.
An important part of this plan for success is reestablishing our physical presence on our campuses for all our students, faculty, and employees. As I shared recently, Miami Dade College has entered Phase 1 of a well-considered 3-phase pandemic recovery plan. While it has not been easy for any of us to stay focused during this time, we as a college have never lost sight of what is truly important. The health and safety of our entire MDC family remain our highest priority and we have made sure that our recovery plan reflects this. If you have not already seen it, please take a moment to view MDC’s COVID-19 Recovery Plan. Having a general idea of what to expect will help us all move along the three phases successfully. More detailed information on each phase will be shared as we approach readiness to enter it.
I wish everyone a successful summer semester. Although it has been an extremely challenging situation for everyone, there is a light at the end of the tunnel. Please stay focused and moving toward your individual goals. Find solace and fulfilment in knowing you are taking steps every day to move closer to making your dreams come true. And while others may fall by the wayside, you must remain on your path to success. You are not alone – everyone in the MDC family stands by you and will be waiting to congratulate you at your personal finish line. In the coming weeks, we will announce our plans for the fall term and the start of our academic year.
Whether you are still studying or working from home or are one of the few coming to campus as part of our Phase 1 reopening, I hope that everyone remains safe and healthy.
Thank you,
Dr. Rolando Montoya
Interim President
Miami Dade College